Gareth Southgate gives coy response to provocative Scotland comment on Newcastle United star

England boss Gareth Southgate has said he is impressed with Newcastle United winger Anthony Gordon, but hinted that a call-up to the Three Lions squad may not be imminent for the star despite interest from Scotland.

This week the Tartan Army made their interest in bringing the Magpies man into the Scotland set-up clear, with Gordon eligible to switch allegiances thanks to his paternal grandparents. The 22-year-old has been a key member of the England youth set-up, starring in this summer's under-21 Euro win, but is yet to be capped at senior level.

Gordon has been in fine form for Newcastle United this season with four goals and two assists. Some thought the player might have been afforded an England debut against Malta or North Macedonia, but that was not the case.

As a result, Scotland deputy and former Newcastle United coach John Carver made a statement of intent to snap up any eligible players for Scotland ahead of next year's Euro 2024 tournament should Southgate not blood his young stars soon.

Replying to Scotland's interest in Gordon, Southgate admitted that the star was 'very close' but would have to 'think a little bit further ahead'. The Three Lions boss said: "He is a good player. He was very good with our under-21s last year. He is very close, I have to say.

“I like his attitude, I like the way he works so hard for the team. Of course, I am sure he was hoping for a call at this moment, but there are good players playing well in that position on the field. But I think, like a couple of others, they have always got to think a little bit further ahead as to opportunities that can come up. I think for somebody like Anthony that is eminently possible with us.”

Southgate has also left out Chelsea man and previous key England star Raheem Sterling from his squad this week with a lot of competition for roles on the flanks. Other English Magpies stars Elliot Anderson, Harvey Barnes and Tino Livramento are also eligible to represent Scotland.

Geordie assistant Carver said: “If someone’s got a relation who is Scottish, then we have to look at it. It’s then down to what he decides but we are aware that these are big decisions about their future

“It’s no secret that Newcastle is my team and I watch them more than anybody. We are aware they have several outstanding players, who have never been capped by England at senior level, who qualify for Scotland.”